What Not To Wear

WHAT NOT TO WEAR

SLIPPED INTO A STYLE SLUMP, MOMMIES? THE FAMILY GROOVE ASKS
MELISSA MAGSAYSAY, FASHION MARKET EDITOR OF THE LOS ANGELES
TIMES, IMAGES SECTION, TO SHARE HER SCOOP ON LIFE À LA MODE.

THE FAMILY GROOVE: What mistakes do moms tend to make when it comes to
fashion?
Melissa Magsaysay: They tend to think that covering up all over is a good idea to
hide weight gain, but a shapeless top or dress just makes you look big and hides
other parts of the body that still look good and flattering. Take a pregnant woman,
for example: many women get great cleavage when pregnant, so they should be wearing a v-neck or angular cut top to add shape and flaunt a little cleavage. A scoop neck or boat neck top tend to make you look, well, rounder; a v-neck is much more flattering. Also, a fitted blazer will pull everything together, creating a sophisticated look, while still showcasing that growing bump.

TFG:	What would you say are ten closet essentials?
MM:	1.	Jeans that you love and could wear day or night. Choose a dark, even wash.
	2.	A fitted black blazer.
	3.	An easy, day dress that can transition from the office to an after work dinner.
	4.	A wrap dress in a solid color. Solids are slimming. Wrap dresses are great for pregnant women, too.
	5.	A gray button down cardigan—something relaxed but not frumpy.
	6.	A pair of black or dull metallic flats without any trendy adornments like crystals, etc.
	7.	A camel/tan-colored v-neck sweater.
	8.	Opaque black tights.
	9.	A classic trench in tan or white.
	10.	A pair of dark brown or black boots, mid-calf to ankle length.

TFG: What should women get rid of from their closets?
MM: Women should get rid of anything that is too baggy, shapeless and unflattering -- unless it’s for sleeping. It's important to maintain a look tailored that is flattering to the body.

TFG: What do women need to know about fashion?
MM: Don't follow a trend just because everyone else is. Some things are not meant for everyone and if it doesn't work for you, don't force it. Only wear what looks good on you.

TFG: What advice do you have for moms who used to dress stylishly, but just can't find the time or impetus to do so after baby and beyond?
MM: Throw out those baggy, scroungy pieces that keep you from having to really get dressed. There are so many easy-to-wear, knee length dresses that look great with flats or sandals and are no-brainers to throw on, even with little ones in tow. A wrap dress is always a great choice, as is the empire style, which is baggier throughout the tummy where weight gain tends to occur. You can still sport a sweatsuit, so why not have it cute instead of frumpy. Seek out a few pieces in a fun color or a print you love, and you'll be inspired to get dressed stylishly again.

TFG: What are three easy ways to look put-together and current?
MM: Metallic accessories are in for fall and winter. It's best to hit that trend on the subtle side with some sandals or ballet flats. Menswear for women is also big. Think: herringbone or pinstripe trousers with a secretary style blouse—very '40s. And wide leg jeans, a nod to the '70s, is also current.

TFG: What are the trends for spring 2008?
MM: Yellow, teal and bright tropical colors are going to be big. You'll see a lot of fluorescent detailing like piping on jackets and dresses. White, tan, camel and light earthy neutrals are also going to be popular. Get ready for shirt dresses and an overarching '70s feel with looks inspired by everything from Mahogany and Three's Company to Bianca Jagger.